OK so I have both pups here with me still in their pen, and I would like to transition them to their crates with as little issue as possible. I've been letting them go in and out on their own, staying in for short durations (such as while I'm training the other), and giving treats for quiet in there. They are also fine in the car in their crates, and were great when they observed my training class last week in there (didn't make a peep, and I treated when I could for quiet).

I'm just worried I'm going to end up with another Kimma who HATES her crate. I know I've already done more desensitizing with them than I did with her (I didn't have a clue back then), but I'm still so paranoid. I think it's time they transition to the crates for at least the nighttime, so as to help a bit with housebreaking.

I've also started crate games, but I'm honestly not sure I can do it much more for a while as I recently got into a car accident and am having lots of back pain.

If anyone has any tips/tricks that would work, I would be super appreciative! They are 9 weeks old, BTW

Sounds like your on the right track. By that age I have them crated at night and start by facing the crates towards each other and close. And of course crating them during the day while I am home and then going out for short periods.

Sounds like your on the right track. By that age I have them crated at night and start by facing the crates towards each other and close. And of course crating them during the day while I am home and then going out for short periods.

Sounds good! I'm going to start crating them at night tonight, and that's a good idea about facing them towards each other at first. They are now holding it through the night, as well, though that might change if they are awake more due to being in the crates. Yes, I've been doing bits of them in crates while I'm home, but haven't done while I'm out yet - I will try that soon. Makes me feel a bit better to know that I've got the right idea! Funny how I can give people loads of advice about crate training, but when it comes to these guys I feel like I have no idea what I'm doing

I allowed them to play, play, play and potty and get tired, then I would crate two pups in a 200 size crate and feed dinner. They would be sacked out after they ate and when they woke up (couple hours later) I would let them out to potty in an ex-pen, then put both pups back in the crate and cover with a towel.

I did that for a week or so, then I transitioned (same routine) to just one pup per crate, side by side. Worked like a dream and they were all crate tolerant before they went to their new homes.

Of course any goodies (stuffed kongs etc) can be given in the crate and let the pup out before he starts squawking. Make sure you've covered the basics, plenty of play time, water, etc. If all his needs have been met and he starts squawking in the crate you'll have to just ignore it at that point.